The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has announced a two-day warning strike set to begin on September 6, 2023. This action serves as a prelude to a planned total shutdown in 21 days.
The decision was reached during the NLC’s National Executive Council meeting, which took place on a recent Friday morning.
In a statement jointly signed by the NLC’s National President, Joe Ajaero, and Secretary, Emmanuel Ugboaja, it was explained that this move is a response to what they perceive as a lack of dialogue from the Tinubu-led Federal Government regarding the removal of fuel subsidies and its impact on the population, particularly the less fortunate.
In August, the NLC already staged a one-day protest that disrupted activities in major cities nationwide. Their grievances also include accusations of police siege at the national headquarters of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, labor rights violations in Imo State, government interference in trade union affairs in Abia State, and proposed demolitions by the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, among other concerns.
The NLC NEC, in their resolutions, decided to initiate a nationwide shutdown within 14 working days or 21 days from the current date, depending on government actions taken to alleviate the widespread suffering and impoverishment. To demonstrate their readiness for the impending indefinite strike, they will first hold a two-day warning strike on September 5th and 6th, 2023.
Furthermore, the NLC plans to hold mass protests and rallies in Imo State during September 2023 to address labor rights issues. They also intend to disrupt the operations of Air Peace Airline and other aviation sector companies that allegedly violate workers’ rights. Additionally, they call on communities to report issues involving the Amalgamated Union of Food Stuffs and Cattle Dealers of Nigeria to authorities for resolution and urge the Federal Capital Territory Minister to prioritize housing accessibility for the public instead of issuing demolition threats.
This development sets the stage for potential labor unrest and significant disruptions across Nigeria in the coming weeks.
